In Mary Shelley’s classic novel “Frankenstein,” the concept of a ‘monster’ is far from being direct and straightforward. While some might associate the word ‘monster’ with the physical creation of Victor Frankenstein, the book explores the complexities of what being a monster is beyond physical appearance. I will dissect the multi-faceted significance of the word ‘monster’ in this blog post.
Dissecting Monstrosity-
According to the Oxford Dictionary, the term ‘monster’ means, “Originally: a mythical creature which is part animal and part human, or combines elements of two or more animal forms, and is frequently of great size and ferocious appearance. Later, more generally: any imaginary creature that is large, ugly, and frightening.” While this may be the direct definition extracted from the dictionary, it does not capture the multifaceted ways in which Shelley employs the word “monster” throughout her novel.
In Chapter IV, we observe Victor Frankenstein’s experiment flourish to life. He describes the creation as follows, “the lifeless thing that lay at my feet[…] I saw the dull yellow eye of the creature open.” Although this sentence does not specifically mention the word ‘monster,’ it alludes to the hideousness of the creature, which is otherwise referred to as a monster in the book. This sets the initial tone for the story which instills a sense of fear in the reader.
Chapter IX, Vol II, offers a shift in the perception of the creature. In this chapter, the creature states, “I am malicious because I am miserable. Am I not shunned and hated by all mankind? […] It is true, we shall be monsters, cut off from all the world; but on that account, we shall be more attached to one another.” This passage encapsulates the transformation of the usage of the word ‘monster.’ As I mentioned previously, when we hear the word ‘monster,’ it is typically perceived as a physical description. I would argue that ‘monster’ is a way to describe emotional turmoil and pain. The creature articulates his feelings and experiences, which reveals the intricacies of emotion. The statement, “I am malicious because I am miserable,” suggests that the creature’s actions, which are sometimes deemed malicious, stem from the deep pain and misery of being isolated and rejected from society. Furthering this idea, the creature recognizes that both he and Victor Frankenstein, “shall be monsters, cut off from all the world; but on that account we shall be more attached to one another,” which presents a contradiction. ‘Monster’ takes on a new meaning, symbolizing the isolation felt by the creature and the unique bond between Victor and himself. This bond is due to the shared experience of being alone and suffering. In conclusion, chapter IX demonstrates how the word ‘monster’ evolves past just physical meaning, but describes emotional dimensions that would not be obvious to the reader at first glance.
“Frankenstein” challenges the conventional meaning of the word ‘monster’ by encouraging the readers to further their understanding of the word. Shelley uses the word to explore the complexities of the characters within the book, as well as their actions, beyond the mere idea of physical appearance. By using the word in such ways that Shelley has throughout her novel, it evokes a sense of empathy and compassion for the characters in the novel.
The words ‘monster’ and ‘wretch’ are deeply intertwined in this novel.
They are used interchangeably within the book, which reflects the evolving perceptions of the creature, as well as evolving feelings felt by the creature throughout each chapter. As the novel unfolds, deeper connotations of the words progress.
Dissecting Wretch-
To further my theory that Shelley prompts her readers to think deeper than the dictionary definition of a word to describe emotional turmoil and intense misery through isolation, I will discuss the meaning of her usage of the word ‘wretch.’ In chapter IV, the passage, “How can I describe my emotions at this catastrophe, or how to delineate the wretch whom with such infinite pains and care I had endeavored to form?” encapsulates the emotional turmoil Victor first felt when he first looked at the creature he made. ‘Wretch’ reflects Victor’s profound disappointment as it highlights the emotional depth of his reaction. The word carries a deeper meaning, which I would say encompasses his sense of failure, the moral implications of the actions Victor carried out, and the deeper complexities associated with the creature he made.
‘Wretch’ is used in many other chapters in this novel, not only describing the physical appearance of Victor’s creation, but also the mix of emotions, including trouble, faintness, rage, and horror.
In conclusion, the words ‘monster’ and ‘wretch’ transcend past the physical appearance of the characters in Shelley’s novel. These words hold profound emotional, moral, and societal complexities. Shelley challenges the normal notions of these words, encouraging her readers to think critically about the true meaning conveyed behind these words.